In order to assess the English proficiency of non-native speakers, the University of Cambridge has devised a system that features five different types of examinations, distinguished by level of difficulty and objectives. The Cambridge English examinations give access to a wide and prestigious range of language certifications that are recognised throughout the world and are structured in the six levels of competence established by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

They are accessible to everyone, from beginners to advanced, and are divided into:

KET (Key English Test): this is the first exam in the Cambridge English family and corresponds to level A2. It certifies an elementary knowledge of English that is expressed in the ability to interact only in simple and familiar contexts;

PET (Preliminary English Test): this is an intermediate examination and corresponds to level B1.

FCE (First Certificate in English): this is the third exam in the Cambridge ESOL group and corresponds to level B2, i.e. a medium-high level of knowledge of the language;

CAE (Certificate in Advanced English): is the first of the two advanced exams of the Cambridge English family and corresponds to level C1. It certifies a high degree of linguistic autonomy that is expressed in the ability to use the language flexibly and naturally for personal, professional and academic purposes.

CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English): this is the last of the Cambridge exams and corresponds to level C2, i.e. a complete mastery of English.